Finding the core truths and values
This is my story
Embracing My Bicultural Roots
I grew up bicultural—a gift I had to unwrap to fully understand its value. It has been a journey of self-discovery, where I learned to bridge my two worlds and carve out a path that is uniquely my own.
A Lifelong Curiosity About People
From a young age, I’ve always been deeply curious about people and their behavior. As a child, I was especially sensitive to the emotions around me. I’d watch people in the park playing with their dogs and children, and in the evenings, I’d gaze at the houses across the street, wondering: What might my neighbors be thinking or feeling?
This curiosity sparked a desire to study psychology. Yet, I chose a different academic path. Even so, the dream lingered—a deep sense that someday, I would find my way into the world of therapy.
My personal journey began in my twenties and led me through a profound inner transformation. I made the decision to spend two years studying in Istanbul, a move that opened my eyes to new perspectives and reshaped my worldview. Before, I lived largely in alignment with the expectations rooted in my Turkish heritage and faith. But in Istanbul, I learned to listen more to my own desires and to remain open to fresh ideas and possibilities.
A Journey Beyond the Ordinary
After returning to the Netherlands, I began working at a bank. However, after three years of full-time work, I felt there was more to life than the conventional path I was on. Driven by a desire to expand my horizons, I decided to embark on a journey around the world.
Traveling alone wasn’t exactly encouraged at home, but I felt a strong pull to explore the world. With a one-way ticket to Australia and no fixed plans, I set out on an adventure that not only took me to new places but also brought me closer to a deeper understanding of myself.
Finding My True Path
When I returned home, I felt like a new person, but it was challenging to reconnect with my old environment. I knew it was time for a new direction, so I decided to pursue a master’s degree in Leadership & Management at the University of Amsterdam, focusing on organizational psychology.
While this study brought me closer to what I truly wanted to do, I still felt I hadn’t quite found the right fit. It was a step in the right direction, but I sensed there was more to uncover. Determined to follow my true path, I kept exploring, knowing that my journey was far from over.
Every moment was bringing me to myself, my home.
Dancing with life
A Life-Changing Decision
During an unforgettable trip through Ecuador, I had a moment of clarity that led me to make an important decision. I enrolled in a program for Psychodynamic Therapy—the best decision I’ve ever made. From the very beginning, I felt completely at home.
This program was more than just an academic journey; it was a profound process of self-discovery. Not only did I learn how to guide others, but I also delved deeply into my own personal growth. It was challenging at times, but above all, it was a deeply enriching and transformative experience.
Embracing My Bicultural Identity
Growing up as a bicultural woman came with its own set of challenges. I learned to stand my ground and choose myself, even when my family system had different expectations of me. It was a journey of discovering how to stay true to myself, live authentically, and still honor the deep connection to my roots.
What do I need to believe in order to have the life I want?
The Inspiration Behind Kardelen
When I was 21, a friend wrote a poem about me, comparing me to snowdrops—a flower that symbolizes resilience and beauty. This poem touched me deeply and inspired me to name my practice Kardelen, the Turkish word for snowdrop.
To me, snowdrops are the quiet powerhouses of nature. They break through the cold and snow, always finding their place in the world, even when the odds seem stacked against them. It’s as if they’re saying, “Bring it on—we’ll keep standing!”
These flowers are a constant source of inspiration for me. They remind me every day to stay strong, to bloom in my own way, and to stand tall no matter what life brings. Just as snowdrops find their path, I strive to find my own—with courage, grace, and unwavering determination.
Would you like to start your own journey?
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